Honoring Fallen Heroes in Operation Epic Fury
As we enjoy parades and cookouts this weekend, let’s take a moment to honor the brave individuals who have recently sacrificed their lives in Operation Epic Fury. These soldiers truly gave everything for their country.
Since the offensive against Iran commenced on February 28, 2026, thirteen service members have lost their lives. The first significant incident occurred on March 1, when a drone struck the 103rd Sustainment Command at Kuwait’s Shuaiba port, resulting in six casualties.
Among those who perished was Maj. Jeffrey O’Brien, 45, from Waukee, Iowa. He joined the Army Reserve as a signal corps officer in 2012 and was deployed to Kuwait in 2019. O’Brien, who was raised on a farm, later became a computer engineer and utilized his skills for national service. He leaves behind his wife Roxanne and spoke fondly of family time and hobbies.
Capt. Cody Koch, 35, hailing from Winter Haven, Florida, also tragically died. He joined the National Guard in 2009, completing three deployments before Operation Epic Fury. His commitment and leadership were apparent, and he is survived by his fiancée, parents, and siblings.
Warrant Officer Robert Marzan, 54, from Spotsylvania, Virginia, enlisted in 1990 and received a Bronze Star. He was nearing the end of his deployment, looking forward to celebrations with his family upon returning home.
Then there’s Sergeant Major Nicole Amor, 39, from White Bear Lake, Minnesota. She began her military career in 2005 and was posthumously promoted after years of dedicated service. Amor is remembered by her husband Joey, children, and her loving family.
Private First Class Noah Tietjens, 42, from Bellevue, Nebraska, joined the Army Reserve in 2006. His community gathered to pay respects at his private funeral, showcasing their appreciation for his service.
Sergeant Declan Cody, only 20 years old from Des Moines, Iowa, also joined the Army Reserve recently as an IT specialist. He showed a keen dedication to his family and was an Eagle Scout, enjoying outdoor adventures before his deployment.
Sergeant Benjamin N. Pennington, 26, from Glendale, Kentucky, was stationed at Prince Sultan Air Force Base and succumbed to injuries from enemy fire on March 8. He had always dreamed of serving in the military, earning his Eagle Scout rank as a youth.
In a separate incident on March 12, a crash involving a U.S. KC-135 tanker in western Iraq claimed the lives of all six crew members. Three were associated with the 6th Air Refueling Wing based in Florida.
Maj. John “Alex” Klinner, 33, of Auburn, Alabama, was one of those lost. He had been with the Air Force since 2017 and is remembered for his commitment to both his ministry and family.
Then there was Capt. Ariana G. Savino, 31, from Covington, Washington, who dedicated her life to flying. Her family expressed relief that she passed while doing what she loved.
Sergeant Tyler H. Simmons, 28, from Columbus, Ohio, recently passed as well. His funeral was marked by a heartfelt procession led by his motorcycle club, which honored his military ties and camaraderie.
These stories, while tragic, remind us of the courage and dedication these individuals showed in their service. Let’s keep their memories alive. They gave everything so that we could enjoy our freedoms today.
